Libya: Avoiding explosive weapons

Last week, a 13-year-old Libyan boy died from injuries sustained when a weapon exploded in Zlitan, a coastal town located about 31 miles from Misrata. Libyan children and adolescents are bearing the brunt of these accidents. In the region, 80% of recorded casualties were younger than 23. Children and adolescents are the most vulnerable, due to a lack of awareness of the dangers these weapons pose.

Handicap International is committed, every day, to preventing such injuries by clearing contaminated areas, and through risk education. Since launching operations in Libya in March 2011, Handicap International destroyed more than 3,500 explosive remnants of war and the association has reached about 50,000 people with its safety messages. As of March 20, the organization has distributed approximately 60,000 leaflets to vulnerable communities in Libya, and has displayed 5,000 posters in contaminated towns and cities. The organization has distributed 20,000 children's textbooks, primarily during risk-education sessions in schools. (Please read our most recent situation report.)

Last week, Handicap International teams secured two parks and a school in Sirte. Now the kids can play and learn again safely. In March, the organization also deployed in Dafniya, following the explosion of ammunition storage located a few hundred feet from the municipal school. The association taught 300 children about the risks of unexploded ordnance.

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Federation

Handicap International's most prestigious awards include:

2011 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize

For our assistance to people with disabilities in situations of poverty, exclusion, conflict and disaster.

1997 Nobel Peace Prize

For campaign success with our partners at the International Campaign to Ban Landmines in creating the 1997 Ottawa Mine Ban Treaty, which bans the deployment, stockpiling, production and sale of anti-personnel mines, and ensures their destruction.

1996 United Nations Nansen Refugee Award

For our service to refugees as well as our contributions to the elimination of landmines.